Team huddle

Kelli Rodda

Last fall, a group of green-industry leaders gathered in Fort Worth, Texas, for two days of frank discussions regarding issues facing the nursery industry. I’m fortunate to have been a part of this dynamic event, which we dubbed the Nursery Grower Business Coalition.

I felt a little like a rookie among a gathering of hall-of-famers. But it didn’t take long for everyone in the room to feel comfortable and treat one another like old friends.

The diversity of the group made for an interesting event. In attendance were growers from coast to coast and a Canadian representative. Both field and container growers were represented, as well as all sizes of operations. But each representative was an innovator in some form or fashion, and each person had something valuable to share.

Participants broke out into small-group sessions, and switched tables throughout the day to get different perspectives. I heard some fascinating observations and creative solutions to issues that affect the nursery industry. Not only did small-sized nurseries learn from large ones, but vice-versa.

As participants went through the list of topics, it quickly became apparent that the group shared common problems and common goals, despite the diversity of the group. There were new acquaintances made during our time together. Business deals were struck and some growers walked away from the event with new sources for plant material.

Our guests shared production tips, marketing ideas and business management pointers. I know I’ve mentioned it before, but I am grateful to be a part of an industry that shares information so freely with one another. Members of this industry are quick to help a fellow nursery grower. I saw a drawing made on a lunch napkin explaining the latest tool the maintenance department crafted. Invitations were extended to visit each other’s nursery. Names and numbers were exchanged to learn more about an irrigation system or a piece of equipment. It was a benevolent group, and I was proud to witness the collaboration. How many other industries can boast this point?

I’d like to thank all the participants for their candor and sincerity, for their time away from their businesses and families, and for their enthusiasm about the industry. As Jim mentioned in his column, a big thanks to our sponsors for helping this event come to fruition.

This industry often comes together as a team. And I can’t help but think of Vince Lombardi when it comes to teamwork. I’ll leave you with a quote from the legendary coach.

“Individual commitment to a group effort — that is what makes a team work, a company work, a society work, a civilization work.” ~Vince Lombardi